Why Big Tracts of Land Are Still a Smart Investment in 2024

Should You Invest in Large Tracts of Land? Find Out!

If you're considering investing in real estate, big tracts of land are an asset class that remains as relevant as ever. Whether you’re looking for hunting land, agricultural land, timberland, or a property for long-term development, large parcels of land continue to be a smart investment in today’s market. Here’s why big tracts of land are still worth your consideration in 2024.

1. Land Appreciation: A Reliable Long-Term Investment

One of the most appealing aspects of buying large tracts of land is the potential for long-term appreciation. While the real estate market may fluctuate in other sectors (such as residential or commercial), land—especially large rural tracts—tends to appreciate steadily over time.

As urban sprawl continues and agricultural demand grows, large parcels of land located in growing areas or near key infrastructure can see significant appreciation. Even remote land can become more valuable as nearby development increases. Unlike other types of real estate, land isn’t subject to the same wear and tear, meaning it often holds its value—or increases—in the long run.

2. A Hedge Against Inflation

In times of economic uncertainty or rising inflation, tangible assets like land have historically been a strong hedge. When inflation rises, the value of currency typically falls, but the value of land tends to remain stable or even appreciate. Farmland, in particular, is one of the best inflation hedges, as global demand for food and agricultural products remains consistent, no matter the economic climate.

As a result, large tracts of farmland and timberland can provide a reliable store of value. This is especially true if the land is productive—either in terms of timber, crops, or recreational use—providing a steady revenue stream in addition to long-term capital gains.

3. Diversification of Your Investment Portfolio

Diversifying your investment portfolio is a crucial strategy to reduce risk, and land offers an excellent way to do that. When you invest in real estate, stocks, or bonds, your portfolio can become vulnerable to market downturns, interest rate changes, or stock market volatility. However, owning land—especially large tracts—gives you a different type of asset that doesn’t correlate with the ups and downs of traditional financial markets.

For investors seeking to balance risk, land provides an alternative investment that can help buffer against stock market swings. With no monthly mortgage payments, no interest rate risks, and minimal ongoing costs, land can be a stress-free way to diversify your assets.

4. Increased Demand for Recreational Land

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of people looking for recreational land. Whether it's for hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, or just a private retreat away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, larger tracts of land that offer outdoor activities are becoming increasingly desirable. As remote work becomes more common and people are spending more time outdoors, recreational properties are in high demand.

Big tracts of land—especially those with access to water, varied terrain, or wildlife—offer opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and sportsmen alike. In the South, states like Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas are seeing significant interest in large hunting and recreational properties, where deer, turkey, and duck hunting opportunities abound. These properties not only appreciate in value but can also generate income through hunting leases or seasonal rentals.

Picture taken on a nearly 40-acre cattle farm listed by Blair Marble. To learn more about this property, click here.

5. Timberland: A Growing Investment Sector

Investing in timberland has become one of the most profitable ways to invest in land. Timber prices have risen steadily over the last few years, and with continued demand for wood products, large tracts of timberland are proving to be a solid investment.

Investors can make money by selling timber for logging, or they can lease the land for hunting or recreation, adding another income stream. Timberland also offers tax benefits, such as deductions for land management and reforestation costs.

For those seeking long-term gains, timberland provides a dual opportunity: timber harvesting and the potential appreciation of the land itself as surrounding areas develop. As an investment, timberland is expected to continue growing in popularity in the coming years.

6. Land Can Be Used for Multiple Purposes

Another benefit of investing in big tracts of land is the versatility. Large properties can serve multiple purposes, depending on your goals. From farming, ranching, and timber production to recreational use, land is not a one-size-fits-all asset. You can diversify your income streams, using the land for different purposes over time, and change its use as your needs or the market demand changes.

For example, a tract of land initially purchased for farming may later be converted into a hunting preserve, an ecotourism destination, or subdivided for future residential development. This flexibility allows landowners to capitalize on different market trends, making land one of the most adaptable real estate investments available.

7. Sustainability and Environmental Benefits

As environmental consciousness continues to grow, more people are looking at land investments from a sustainability perspective. Conservation easements, wildlife habitats, and environmentally friendly farming practices are becoming more popular among landowners. Investors who want to make a positive impact on the environment can engage in sustainable practices, such as reforestation, wildlife management, or organic farming.

Not only does this contribute to preserving the land for future generations, but it can also provide tax incentives and other financial benefits. In today’s market, there’s growing demand for properties that focus on environmental stewardship, and owning large tracts of land offers the opportunity to support such practices.

Conclusion: Big Tracts of Land Offer Big Opportunities

Big tracts of land are still one of the most attractive investments available. Whether you’re interested in recreational use, timber production, or simply long-term land appreciation, large parcels offer diverse opportunities to generate income and build wealth. With a strong outlook for the future, the versatility of land ownership—combined with its ability to hedge against inflation, diversify investment portfolios, and appeal to recreational buyers—makes it a smart choice for investors in 2024 and beyond.

If you’re interested in exploring big tracts of land for sale in Mississippi, Louisiana, or Arkansas, Blair Marble Real Estate with LandMax Properties can help you find the perfect property. Contact us today to learn more about the opportunities available and start your journey toward land ownership.

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Real Estate Trends for Big Tracts of Land:

Everything You Need to Know.

In recent years, the real estate market for large tracts of land has seen some notable shifts. Whether you’re considering purchasing land for hunting, farming, timber investment, or simply as a long-term hold, understanding the current trends is key to making informed decisions. Let’s take a look at the most important trends affecting big land sales today.

1. Rising Demand for Recreational Land

One of the most significant trends in land sales is the increased demand for recreational properties, particularly hunting land, fishing spots, and properties that offer a blend of outdoor activities. With more people seeking escapes from urban environments, recreational land, especially in rural areas of the South and Midwest, has become highly desirable.

Hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking for a private retreat are driving this trend. Whether it's for hunting deer, turkey, or waterfowl, large tracts of land provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of recreational uses. This trend is expected to continue as more people value space and nature, especially with the pandemic making outdoor activities more popular than ever.

2. Timberland Investment Is On the Rise

Investors are increasingly looking to large tracts of timberland as a solid long-term investment. Timber prices have been on the rise, making forested land an attractive option for those seeking stable returns.

Timberland offers multiple revenue streams: selling timber, leasing land for hunting, and the potential for future land appreciation. Investors who manage timberlands properly can see significant financial returns. This trend is particularly strong in states like Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, where timber production is a significant industry.

Picture from Land listed by Blair Marble. To view listing , click here.

3. Farming Land Remains a Stable Investment

Farmland has always been a reliable asset for long-term investors, and it continues to be a stable investment in today’s market. The demand for food and crops, along with low interest rates, makes farmland a sound investment for many. Large tracts of agricultural land are being bought and sold, and prices have generally increased, especially in areas with fertile soil and good irrigation potential.

Additionally, the shift toward sustainable farming practices and organic crops is contributing to the growing interest in farmland. Investors who focus on these practices can expect increased interest from eco-conscious buyers.

4. Strong Market for Land Near Urban Areas

Another key trend is the growing interest in larger tracts of land near urban or suburban areas. As more people look to relocate to rural areas while still maintaining proximity to cities for work or amenities, the demand for large tracts near these areas has surged.

This trend has led to more buyers considering land near key metropolitan hubs as an investment. Whether it’s for recreational use, farming, or even future development, this type of land offers both convenience and potential for appreciation as urban sprawl continues to expand.

5. Technology and Land Management

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in land management, especially for large tracts. Drones, satellite imagery, and other tools now allow landowners and investors to monitor and manage their properties more efficiently. From tracking timber growth to assessing wildlife populations, these technologies are transforming how land is used and managed.

Additionally, platforms that provide land data, such as soil quality, water availability, and access to infrastructure, are helping buyers make more informed decisions. This shift towards data-driven decision-making is helping landowners maximize their property’s potential.

6. Lower Interest Rates and Financing Options

Interest rates have remained historically low, making it a good time for land buyers to secure financing. Traditional banks, private lenders, and specialized land financing companies are all offering competitive rates for large land purchases. With more flexible financing options, including longer loan terms and lower down payments, purchasing large tracts of land has become more accessible to a wider range of buyers.

7. Environmental Considerations and Conservation Easements

Finally, conservation easements and environmental protections are becoming a bigger part of land transactions. Many buyers are looking for ways to ensure that their land is preserved for future generations, either by protecting natural habitats or participating in government programs that incentivize sustainable land use.

Whether it’s through tax incentives for conservation easements or the desire for eco-friendly ownership, land buyers are increasingly factoring in the environmental impact of their purchases. This trend is particularly strong among buyers who are not just interested in land for recreational or investment purposes, but also in its preservation.

Conclusion

The market for large tracts of land is evolving, with more buyers seeking out recreational, timber, and agricultural properties as long-term investments. Whether you’re considering a property for personal use, hunting, or as an investment, understanding these trends will help you navigate the real estate landscape. With low interest rates, increased demand for rural escapes, and new technologies making land management easier, now might be the perfect time to explore opportunities in the land market.

If you're interested in purchasing or selling land, especially large tracts in Mississippi, Louisiana, or Arkansas, don’t hesitate to reach out. With the right guidance, you can take advantage of these current trends and find the perfect property to meet your goals.

Hunting Property - Quite the Investment

If you are an avid hunter, buying hunting property can be a great investment. Not only can you enjoy hunting on your own land, but you can also potentially earn income by leasing the property to other hunters. However, buying hunting property is not the same as buying any other piece of real estate. Here are some important considerations from Your Man for Land to keep in mind when searching for the best hunting properties.

Location

The location of the hunting property is crucial. You want to find a property that is located in an area with abundant wildlife and where hunting is legal. Do some research on the local hunting laws and regulations, as well as the types of game that are in the area.

Terrain

The terrain of the property can also affect the hunting experience. Look for a property with a variety of terrain features, such as hills, valleys, forests, and open fields. This can provide different types of hunting opportunities and attract a wider range of wildlife.

Water Sources

Water is essential for wildlife, so having water sources on your hunting property can be a major advantage. Look for properties with streams, ponds, or other bodies of water that can attract game.

Access

Access to the property is another important factor to consider. Make sure there is a clear road or trail leading to the property and that it is accessible year-round. If the property is located in a remote area, consider the logistics of getting there and the cost of maintaining the access roads.

Hunting Infrastructure

Depending on your hunting preferences, you may want to consider properties that already have hunting infrastructure in place. This could include hunting blinds, tree stands, food plots, or other features that can enhance the hunting experience.

Legal Considerations

Before buying hunting property, it's important to understand the legal considerations. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the property boundaries, any hunting restrictions or regulations in the area, and any liability issues that may arise.

Financing

Finally, consider the financing options for buying hunting property. You may need to secure a loan specifically for hunting property or work with a lender who specializes in this type of real estate. Be sure to factor in any additional costs such as property taxes, maintenance, and insurance.

Conclusion Buying hunting property can be a great investment for hunters, but it's important to approach the process with a clear understanding and with the right realtor. By doing your research and working with an experienced professional like Blair Marble, you can find the perfect hunting property for your needs and enjoy years of hunting success.